Ekrem Imamoglu, the Istanbul Mayor and key opposition figure, faced charges in court accusing him of trying to influence the judiciary over critical remarks he made about officials. He vehemently denied the allegations, arguing he did not target any individuals. This case stems from his criticisms against legal actions against opposition-run municipalities. Imamoglu's ongoing legal battles reflect a concerning trend of judicial erosion in Turkiye, intensifying political tensions. As supporters rallied outside the courthouse, clashes erupted with police, highlighting the urgency of the demands for justice and democratic rights under Erdogan's rule.
I did not engage in any actions targeting any individual. It is impossible for me to act in such a way. I do not accept the charges against me, Imamoglu told prosecutors.
The case against him is the latest in a series of legal challenges faced by opposition politicians in Turkiye, where rights groups said judicial independence has eroded during Erdogan's two-decade rule.
Today's issue is an issue of seeking rights and justice, the mayor said. Unfortunately, today's issue reflects the broader challenges activists face under the current regime.
Thousands of his supporters gathered outside the court on Friday to protest against the legal actions against Imamoglu, showing solidarity amid rising tensions.
Collection
[
|
...
]